GOAL!On second thought ...Some thoughts and observations on last week's World Cup draw:
Now that the initial shock has dissipated, the U.S. draw into Group E with Italy, Ghana and the Czech Republic might not be quite as frightful as it seems.

Heat a winner in Riley styleCHICAGO – Everything about Pat Riley's return to the sideline looked familiar: He whistled to get his player's attention. He stalked the sideline in a designer jacket and slacks. His hair was slicked back. And, yes, his team won with an All-Star center leading the way.

NBA REPORTOrlando expecting Hill to make season debutAfter spending all season on the bench with an abdominal injury, star forward Grant Hill is expected to play for the Orlando Magic for the first time this season tonight against the New York Knicks.

NHL ROUNDUPStefan, Atlanta top Detroit 7-6Patrik Stefan scored twice, including the go-ahead goal with less than five minutes left in the third period, as the host Atlanta Thrashers blew a four-goal lead before recovering for a 7-6 win over the Detroit Red Wings last night.

IN BRIEFMistrial ruled in suit against Venus, SerenaA judge in West Palm Beach, Fla., declared a mistrial yesterday in a lawsuit by promoters who contended Venus and Serena Williams reneged on a deal to play men in a proposed "Battle of the Sexes" tennis event in 2001.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL REPORTYoung pushes Leinart to AP's second teamVince Young can claim at least one victory over Southern California this season. The Texas quarterback was selected to The Associated Press All-America team released yesterday, relegating USC's Matt Leinart to the second team.

SNOW SPORTS BRIAN E. CLARKSkateboard parks shift to mountainsI like to keep my skis on the snow, thank you very much. The idea of falling face first on a metal rail or the edge of a fiberglass box makes me see red (blood) and a big dental bill.

Women's league delays draftTo allow for further evaluation of players, the National Women's Basketball League postponed its draft of tryout candidates from Monday to next Tuesday.

BASEBALL REPORTDodgers trade Bradley to A's for prospectThe Los Angeles Dodgers unloaded Milton Bradley yesterday, sending the switch-hitting outfielder to the Oakland Athletics along with infielder Antonio Perez for minor league outfielder Andre Ethier, the Texas League Player of the Year.